Burnout has a way of sneaking up on us. It’s not just about being tired or too busy; it’s the hollow feeling that comes when your spirit feels empty. Many of us know that place well, even when we were once passionate about our work. What I’ve learned is that recovery isn’t about pushing harder or simply “getting through.” It’s about pausing long enough to ask the hard questions:

• Why am I feeling this way?
• How did I get here? 
• If I keep going like this, what will it cost me in the long run?
• What do I need to let go of in order to heal?

I had to remind myself what I had been teaching my adult students: finding purpose is a process that we may need to revisit many times during our lifetime. My exhaustion didn’t erase overnight, but reimagining my purpose offered me a way forward.

In order to redefine our purpose, we begin by honoring our emotions–listening to their wisdom and the important messages they carry. In my upcoming book, Living with the HEART in Mind, I explore how paying attention to emotions creates space for resilience, healing, and deeper connection. Here’s a short snippet from the book:

“How we interact with our thoughts and emotions will make a difference in our daily lives. This became very clear to me when I was struggling with burnout and kept listening to the voices that told me “You are not doing enough,” or “You are so lazy! You should be getting more work done.” I believed these voices, even though they were hurtful and left me feeling anxious, inadequate, and disheartened. Nothing I did seemed enough to truly rest, which meant I never felt reenergized for the week ahead. I was in a constant loop of despair. 

In those low moments, I began asking “What am I feeling?” and “What is that emotion trying to tell me?” Slowing down to listen often revealed a different, gentler voice—one that was patient, compassionate, and able to point me in a healthier direction. It took courage to sit with these feelings, as they were painful, but it was the first step in understanding what I was really experiencing and finding a way forward.

Learning to honor our emotions is the foundation of emotional intelligence—a skill that can be practiced and strengthened over time. We may not have been taught how to do this as children, but it’s essential for recovery, healing, and building resilience. In the chapters ahead, I’ll share a roadmap to help you grow your emotional intelligence and rediscover your joy and purpose.”

As you sit with these words, I invite you to take a gentle pause and notice what’s coming up for you. Maybe it’s fatigue, relief, or even a quiet sense of recognition. Whatever shows up, try to welcome it with curiosity rather than judgment. This simple act of paying attention to your emotions can be the first step toward wellbeing, and a reminder that you always have a chance to start again.

To starting again, together.

Photo by  Nick Odnari 

Are you going to the Wellness Together Conference in San Diego, CA?

If you are, come say hello! I will be presenting on Wednesday, October 1st, alongside colleagues from the Los Angeles County Office of Education, discussing educator well-being.